stonecrandall Chapter 32 Blackwater Established
Chapter 32 Blackwater Established
"You're right, it's indeed very difficult for new employment companies to get government contracts. It's a lucrative business, and there are too many competing forces."
"But then again, if we can achieve some results and make a name for ourselves, those people in Washington with their interest radars on full display will probably come knocking on our door overnight with a cooperation agreement in hand."
The successive deaths of his father and wife left Eric somewhat disheartened, plunging this tough man into a vortex of confusion.
His family had a distinguished background and considerable wealth in the United States. From a young age, Eric aspired to military service and underwent rigorous education and training.
After reaching adulthood, he abandoned his family's arrangements and resolutely joined the military. After undergoing countless arduous training sessions, he eventually joined the Navy SEALs, surprising everyone who knew him.
His passion kept him going, and because of that passion, he didn't know what else he could do besides wear the military uniform.
He had considered starting a security company, and his family had some connections that could help him secure some orders, but a mundane life was not the military career he wanted.
Unexpectedly, a relaxing trip to California solidified his long-held, undecided idea.
"What are your thoughts?" Eric was completely intrigued.
Ernst suppressed his excitement and began to explain his plan to the other party: "We can first set our sights on the country. 99% of police officers in the United States lack training and are at a loss when facing ruthless criminals, often being suppressed by the criminals' firepower."
"Whether it's coordination or tactics, it's not a problem for people like you. Hiring a few elite troops like you and developing specific tactics for urban crime isn't difficult."
"Just sign contracts with a few police stations, generate results, and your company will naturally make a name for itself."
Ernst meticulously laid out his business plan to the other party, counting on his fingers.
"These days, reputation is very valuable. With a reputation, people will naturally contact you and work together to secure overseas government contracts."
"Then it was about expanding our business, taking on military operations and high-level security services."
"The United States has already tasted success in regions such as the Gulf and the Balkans, and will certainly actively expand its military power overseas."
"As the saying goes, 'When the cannons roar, gold pours in,' which is backed by huge military expenditures."
"In the United States, the death of a soldier involves huge expenses, including insurance, pensions, follow-up expenses for the family, military subsidies, etc., which can cost at least $100 million."
"So even if mercenaries are paid more, it's just a one-off deal. What do you think Washington will choose?"
The conditions for American soldiers to die in action are very harsh, but the benefits they receive are indeed good.
If a soldier dies in action, the first compensation payment is $100,000, while for non-commissioned officers it is around $200,000 to $300,000 depending on their rank.
Then there's the insurance; the insurance payout will be $50.
In addition to these two subsidies, the families of the fallen soldiers will also receive a $30 family compensation payment.
If you have children under 18, you will also receive some subsidies, including scholarships.
This is why Washington would rather use artillery fire to swat mosquitoes than send a hundred soldiers to capture two terrorists.
Whether it's Washington or insurance companies, they all choose to outsource when it comes to life-threatening issues.
"The increase in overseas operations naturally creates a huge demand for personnel, and Washington cannot send those child soldiers deep behind enemy lines."
"There are also the wealthy in turbulent regions and neighboring countries. When war breaks out, life is obviously more important than money, which is a huge market."
The more Ernst explained, the brighter Eric's eyes became.
When he was a Navy SEAL, he often had to go on missions to dangerous locations. The wealthy there were willing to pay any price to ensure his safe escape from the war-torn region.
And those industries, especially mining.
These assets cannot be taken away or moved. After the wealthy leave, they will still need these industries to provide them with a continuous source of funding, which represents potential business opportunities.
Looking at the various difficulties faced by the US military in overseas operations, especially the challenges related to manpower and security, no one understands them better than him.
Eric realized that this was a huge business opportunity and that Ernst's idea was feasible.
"Would you like to become the King of Mercenaries with me? I think we're a match made in heaven. You have the ideas, I have the solutions. You'll be in charge of strategizing, and I'll be in charge of training the assault troops."
Ernst smiled knowingly; after all that talk, the fish had finally taken the bait.
A great man once said, "Political power grows out of the barrel of a gun."
In America, no matter how much wealth a newcomer has, they have no influence in the military; their power has long been divided up.
Ernst's original idea was to take it slow and try to enter the military-industrial complex later, becoming a weapons and equipment supplier.
But Eric's arrival gave Ernst another path, allowing him to walk on two legs.
Eric's Blackwater was the undisputed king of mercenaries. Many people later said that the company had declined, but that was only on the surface.
Splits, restructurings, and numerous acquisitions.
Blackwater no longer exists, but the core framework of the company remains unchanged; the 20,000 mercenaries it employed are still a real entity.
One piece of news can prove this point: if this company has truly declined, why has all the information about it disappeared online? Who made these messages disappear?
The one who failed was the man before him, Eric Prince.
Clearly, the sheer size of Blackwater means that some people no longer need this figure in the limelight; what they need is to remain hidden, to live a life of quiet seclusion.
These people can kick Eric aside, but they might not be able to kick themselves aside.
After all, Eric had no chips except for Blackwater, so he was destined not to be the one to play the game, but Ernst was different.
Ernst was pondering how to use the black water to achieve a leap in social class.
But Eric saw it as hesitation: "Ernst, I didn't tell you that my family and the cowboy family have a good relationship, and our first step will be faster and easier."
"The little cowboy has decided to run in the next election. If he is elected, you should understand what that means."
Ernst paused for a moment, then feigned surprise, "Really? That's wonderful."
How could I not know you're connected to the Cowboys? What an adorable pawn.
"So you agreed?"
Looking at the expectation in the other person's eyes, did Ernst have any reason to refuse?
"Of course, it's a pleasure to work with you."
Ernst raised his beer.
"We will succeed, I firmly believe it."
Eric smiled broadly and clinked glasses with Ernst.
What name do you think our company should have?
"How's Blackwater International doing?"
Ernst answered without hesitation.
"Blackwater?" Eric frowned. "What does that mean?"
The name "Blackwater" originally came from a pool of black water outside the training base Eric chose, and it was a name that was changed later and had no real meaning.
"A symbol of mystery and danger, it also hints at death and misfortune. These two words are telling our employees that their profession is fraught with danger, and they must be extremely cautious."